Mount Zao

★ 4.6 (1K+ reviews) • 1K+ booked
Overview
Things to do
Hotels

Mount Zao Tickets & Tours

Winter wonderland in the Northeast|Ginzan Hot Springs, Zao Ice Trees, Fox Village, Onihira Edo-chu 2-day tour (including breakfast and dinner at the hot spring hotel)|Depart from Tokyo
kr 1,558
Sale 40% off
Miyagi Zao Okama Crater & Fox Village Day Trip (From Sendai)
Tours • From Sendai

Miyagi Zao Okama Crater & Fox Village Day Trip (From Sendai)

Private tour
English guided
Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(8) • 50+ booked
kr 1,044
Ginzan Onsen + Yamagata Winery + Zao Ropeway + Mogami River Snow Viewing Boat 2-Day Tour (Hot spring hotel with 2 meals)
Tours • From Tokyo

Ginzan Onsen + Yamagata Winery + Zao Ropeway + Mogami River Snow Viewing Boat 2-Day Tour (Hot spring hotel with 2 meals)

English guided
Free cancellation
4.3 / 5
(18) • 200+ booked
kr 1,911
Zao Okama & Choro Lake 2-Day Autumn Small Group Tour
Tours • From Sendai

Zao Okama & Choro Lake 2-Day Autumn Small Group Tour

English guided
Free cancellation
New Activity
kr 1,678
Sale 20% off
Private English and Chinese ski lessons and photography services at Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Klook's choice
Outdoor & sports activities • Yamagata (From Katta)

Private English and Chinese ski lessons and photography services at Zao Onsen Ski Resort

Morning departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
5.0 / 5
(52) • 300+ booked
From
kr 2,014
Sale 15% off
Zao Onsen Ski Resort | Ski Equipment Rental
Outdoor & sports activities • Yamagata

Zao Onsen Ski Resort | Ski Equipment Rental

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(50) • 1K+ booked
kr 208
Sale 5% off
Zao Onsen Ski Lesson with Gear / Chinese Private Group (1-4)
Outdoor & sports activities • Yamagata

Zao Onsen Ski Lesson with Gear / Chinese Private Group (1-4)

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(5) • 100+ booked
kr 2,295
Sendai Zao Snow Monsters & Ginzan Onsen Day Tour
Tours • From Sendai

Sendai Zao Snow Monsters & Ginzan Onsen Day Tour

Private tour
English guided
Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(51) • 1K+ booked
kr 834
Tohoku Japan Day Tour: Miyagi Zao Snow Monster Vehicle, Kinja Suijinja Shrine for Financial Luck, Akiu Great Falls (Depa
kr 1,053
Sale 20% off
Zao Snow Monster Trees Illumination Tour from Sendai Station
Tours • From Sendai

Zao Snow Monster Trees Illumination Tour from Sendai Station

Small group
Afternoon departure
Free cancellation
kr 1,769

Where to stay in Mount Zao

Gokan no Yu Tsuruya
Hotels • Yamagata

Gokan no Yu Tsuruya

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(251)
From
kr 1,142.87
kr 1,176.22
Meitoya So
Hotels • Yamagata

Meitoya So

Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(84)
From
kr 727.71
Omiya Ryokan
Hotels • Yamagata

Omiya Ryokan

Instant confirmation
4.6 / 5
(174)
From
kr 881.06
Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(101)
From
kr 1,614.72
Zao International Hotel
Hotels • Yamagata

Zao International Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(84)
From
kr 1,276.47
Zao Onsen Zao Shiki No Hotel
Hotels • Yamagata

Zao Onsen Zao Shiki No Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(190)
From
kr 1,162.83
Le Vert Zao
Hotels • Yamagata

Le Vert Zao

Instant confirmation
3.8 / 5
(30)
From
kr 885.21
Hotel Lucent Takamiya
Hotels • Yamagata

Hotel Lucent Takamiya

Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(58)
From
kr 741.77
Genghis Khan Lodge
Hotels • Yamagata

Genghis Khan Lodge

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(25)
From
kr 1,365.34
Wakamatsuya
Hotels • Yamagata

Wakamatsuya

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(40)
From
kr 1,197.39
Takamiya Hotel Jurin
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Hotel Jurin

Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(25)
From
kr 1,593.28
Takamiya Hotel Hammond
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Hotel Hammond

Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(82)
From
kr 432.88

Mount Zao Reviews

sam ***
2026-05-22 08:10:52
Fantastic 5.0
it was a pity we can't see the crater due to the weather. guides were very helpful

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FAQs about Mount Zao

When is the best time to visit Mount Zao Yamagata for skiing?

What are the best months for hiking at Mount Zao Yamagata?

How can I get to Mount Zao Yamagata from Yamagata City?

What should I wear when visiting Mount Zao Yamagata in winter?

How can I reach Zao Onsen from Tokyo?

What local cuisine should I try at Mount Zao Yamagata?

When is the best time to see the 'snow monsters' at Mount Zao Yamagata?

What are the transportation options to reach Mount Zao Yamagata?

What should I bring for a summer visit to Mount Zao Yamagata?

What to know about Mount Zao

Welcome to the majestic Zaō Mountains, also known as Mount Zaō, a captivating cluster of stratovolcanoes nestled on the border between Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures in Japan. This enchanting destination boasts a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and ancient traditions that will leave you in awe. With its towering peaks, legendary hot springs, and iconic volcanic mountain, Mount Zaō beckons travelers to explore its snow-covered slopes, immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region, and indulge in the therapeutic waters of Zao Onsen.
Mount Zaō, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Okama Crater Lake

Discover the mesmerizing Okama Crater Lake, also known as the Five Color Pond, which changes hues based on the weather. This stunning crater lake, formed by a volcanic eruption, is a must-visit attraction offering a picturesque setting for visitors.

Frost-Covered Trees

Experience the surreal beauty of the frost-covered trees, known as juhyō, that create a ghostly forest during the winter months. Witness the magical transformation of trees covered in ice formations, creating a unique and captivating landscape.

Zao Ski Resort

Experience some of the highest annual snowfall in the world at Zao Ski Resort, where you can ski, snowboard, and witness the enchanting Zao Snow Monsters in the peak winter months. With 14 slopes, 12 courses, and stunning night skiing options, Zao Ski Resort is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. After a fun day of skiing, relax and unwind with hot spring waters from Zao Onsen.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Zaō Mountains hold cultural and historical significance, with the Goshiki-dake lava domes and tuff cone showcasing the volcanic heritage of the region. Explore the rich history of the area through its volcanic formations and landmarks.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures with popular local dishes such as Zunda Mochi, Yonezawa Beef, Sasakama, hearty ramen, fresh seafood, and seasonal delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the unique culinary delights of the region.

Culture and History

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Mount Zao Yamagata, with traditional Japanese architecture and historical landmarks waiting to be discovered.